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How To Keep Pond Water Clear Without A Filter

How To Keep Pond Water Clear Without A Filter

You can keep your pond water clear and clean without using a filter. Filters can be expensive and cause problems depending on the climate and weather they encounter. This means you will have to find alternative ways of cleaning it in an effective manner so waster does not build up. If you do not have a filter, rotting plants, fish waste, ammonia nitrates, uneaten food and suchlike will pollute the water, hurting and maybe even killing your plants and fish. Read on to learn how you can keep your pond water clean without using a filter.

Do Not Overstock

You need to be sure not to overstock the pond when using a filter. So do not add too many fish as they eat a lot of food and of course produce a great deal of fish waste that releases ammonia into the water. Therefore the less fish in the pond, the less waste is produced. The amount of water in the pond compared to the number of fish has to be a lot higher when you are not utilizing a filter compared to when you do have a filter.

Avoid Overfeeding Your Fish

If your fish are overfed, there will not only be a good amount of uneaten food but the food releases nitrates, nitrites and ammoinia as well as other undesirable substances. These can be harmful to fish and also produce algae blooms. The same is true for fish waste. Therefore, just feed your fish enough food to survive but do not go over the top and spoil them with foods they are not going to eat or will consume too much of. it also helps to have foods that do not contain phosphate.

Regularly Change Water

Without a filter, pond water will need to be cleaned manually. It is vital to clean away solid fish waste, uneaten food, algae, dead fish and rotting plants as they can all release ammonia into the water. You may want to remove plants, ornaments and decorations from the water from time to time and thoroughly clean them.

Utilize A UV Sterilizer

A UV Sterilizer will be enormously helpful when you have a filterless pond. As algae needs a great amount of sunlight to bloom and multiply, a UV Sterilizer neutralizes the sunlight and does a long way in keeping pond water algae free. Algae san suffocate fish and plants, as well as being unsightly and unpleasant to smell. So this is a vital component in making sure your pond water remains clean.

Nano Media Reactors

Not actually a filter, a nano media reactor works like a backup filtration unit and it removes organic compounds like ammonia and nitrates from the water. It is great to have if you have fish that produce a lot of waste. As a bonus, it is also very helpful with algae control.

Using Pond Dye

It is not the best way to keep your pond clean but it does have the advantage of having algae control. As algae needs a lot of sunlight, the pond dye works as an effective sun blocking agent preventing the growth of algae.

Have The Correct Plants

Submerged plants work as natural filters as they assist in drawing out poisonous substances from the pond water as well as absorbing fish caused waste products. Conversely, some floating plants will prevent sunlight from reaching the water helping to prevent the growth of algae.

The Backyard Pond, LLC offers water and pond design and installation services throughout the Phoenix Valley.

Contact us today at 623-878-6695 and visit our water feature and pond design installation services page.

Pond Lighting

Pond Lighting

Pond lighting allows you to enjoy your pond whenever you like, night or day. With a little thought, you can design pond lighting to enhance the appearance of your pond as well as creating dramatic looking focal points. There are many lighting options available, read on to learn more about them.

Pond Downlighting Options

Pond downlighting offers a diffused natural looking light with a very desirable natural appearance. If you are fortunate enough to have older trees surrounding the pond, installing lights in the branches can give a moonlighting style effect with the additional advantage of showcasing the surrounding landscape. Another bonus is the shadows created that can cast onto the pond from the canopy of the trees. Far easier to maintain than submersible pond lights, downlights are less hassle and greater value for money.

Submersible Pond Lights

Submersible pond lights make the water sparkle, as the light shines up through the water. Making them perfect for ponds with a wide waterfall, or a waterfall with multiple tiers, where lights need to be positioned into tight positions and into the nooks and crannies. However, even the best underwater lights can take in water, which causes damage. Moss and algae can grow over the lenses, obscuring the light. Underwater lights tend to show all of the algae, dirt and leaves floating in the pond. One more reason to keep your pond as clean as possible.

Uplighting

We prefer to use directional uplights, also known as bullet lights, above the water but close to the pond’s edge. Capable of being pointed in any direction, to cast light on the pond’s surface, to highlight foliage at the pond’s edge or to direct light toward a waterfall. Aiming light at the waterfall in this way hits the surface of the pond catches the air bubbles, and highlights the movement. Bullet lights are great for this. Because these lights aren’t in the water, they hold up better over time than submersible lights.

Overlighting

A water feature needs to be built like Mother Nature actually showed up. Don’t install a pond in your front yard with a huge elevation as that would not occur naturally. Similarly with lighting. It should look like nature is lighting it. Does the moon blast your pond with so much light you could thread a needle out there? Subtle highlights are more effective than harsh spotlights. You want to play up the best qualities of your pond, not highlight every single detail.

Mistakes To Avoid

Creating Glare: Glare is always a big concern when lighting a pond. It’s important to position the fixtures so the light doesn’t hit you in the eye.
You also want to avoid the glare of “hot spots” that come from using a single lighting source.
Ignoring Clarity: If your pond is murky, submersible pond lights aren’t the best choice. A clear, well-maintained pond will sparkle in the light.

The Backyard Pond, LLC offers water and pond design and installation services throughout the Phoenix Valley.

Contact us today at 623-878-6695 and visit our water feature and pond design installation services page.

Pond Design & Installation Considerations

Pond Design Installation Considerations

Before you decide to have a pond designed and installed remember your garden can thrive around the new water feature and you will be visited by lots of new friends such as dragonflies, songbirds and other fascinating wildlife.

So before you dedicate a healthy budget to the building of your dream pond consider the following checklist to make sure it is a wise decision:

Location is vital. Avoid installing a pond in a low spot that gets accumulative runoff when it rains. Water crossing over gardens, farms or lawns can add fertilizers or chemicals harming aquatic creatures and plants.
Decide on a good view for your pond, maybe with room to add a bench or some chair so you can maximize your enjoyment of the pond. You may want to be able to view the pond when you are inside as well.
Ensure the spot is level and gets at least a half-day of sunshine. Do not position the pond too close to shrubs or trees that may drop debris or leaves into the pond.
Position the pond within reach if an electrical outlet protected with a ground floor interrupter so shocks can be avoided. You will require a pump that can be plugged in to circulate water and you may want to invest in an aerator especially if you add some fish. An outlet also allows you to add additional accessories and outdoor lighting.
Before you begin, check local zoning restrictions and regulations. You may also need permission from your Home Owners Association. Some insurance companies will also require notification and may require you to secure the pond with a fence for the protection of animals and children.
Have the utility company mark lines so you do not dig into anything!
If you want to keep fish remember if you live in a cold winter climate the pond will have to be deep enough to protect them.
Your budget will dictate the size of your pond. Some costs are those you may not think of right away. For example, fertilizers, plant pots, rocks, test kits, and water thermometer. Other obvious expenses include the costs of filling the pond, mechanical, biological and chemical filters.
Generally speaking, the more curves in the design, the more expensive and costly it is to dig.

Once your pond is filled with beautiful sparkling clean water, you can then move on and add some beautiful aquatic creatures and plants!

The Backyard Pond, LLC offers water and pond design and installation services throughout the Phoenix Valley.

Contact us today at 623-878-6695 and visit our water feature and pond design installation services page.

Aquatic Plants

Aquatic Plants

Choosing the right plants for your pond in Arizona will make it more visually stunning and preserve the health of the pond. If you’re searching “Aquatic Plants” you’re either planning a new pond or considering about how to make your present pond better.

Aquatic Plants

Water plants are generally considered one of the best ways to enhance a water feature. Occasionally called aquatic plants, there are water plants for just about every type of water feature, from small table fountains to spacious backyard ponds. The type of aquatic plant that will best suit your water feature is will be decided by your requirements, as well as the developing features of each plant.

Tropical Night Blooming Lilies

The Antares Night Blooming Tropical Water Lily is an attractive rosy-red colored lily with 5 1/2″ – 7 1/2″ flowers. This free flowering lily has a bowl-like flower likeness and the leaves are darkish rust color. The Antares Night Blooming Tropical Water Lily opens right before nightfall and stays open until the morning hours.

Hard Water Lilies

A water garden is not complete without one or more of these elegant pond plants. The hardy water lily is available in an assortment of sizes and colors. The water lily plant, once they established in your backyard pond will reward you with a lot flowers all through the summer months. Hardy water lilies will bloom regularly May thru September. They do great in winter and the water lily will comeback in the spring once again giving you a lovely backyard pond plant.

Tropical Water Lilies

Tropical water lilies make a stunning centerpiece in your backyard pond. Its flowers rise several inches out of the water and are more bountiful than hardy lilies. Flowers open mid-morning and will stay open until late the afternoon or early evening. Tropical water lilies can safely be placed outdoors when the water temperatures are a regular 65+ degrees. Tropical water lilies that are marked as Viviparous (producing seeds that grow on the plant itself) will endure through cooler water temperatures and bloom later into the autumn months.

Aquatic Bog Plants

Aquatic bog plants grow in shallow water or at the border of the pond. Marginal plants consist of pond plant variations that stand above the water while their feet constantly remain wet. All of the hardy bog pond plants are a perennial type and will come back every spring and bloom at various times all through the season. Hardy bog plants are valuable because they add height and proportion to the pond giving it a more natural look.

Water Iris

An additional favorite for pond owners is the water iris, as there are a lot of varieties to choose from. They supply a long sharp leaf, and depending on the species can produce various color flowers, from white, blue, to yellows. Commonly, these plants are placed in pots which are then submerged in the pond water. The majority of water iris will survive in limited or full sun, which is good for those that have some type of shade.

Lotus

Lotus plants are a hardy perennial pond plant and will give you colorful flowers year in, year out. Some water lotus species have leaves that can reach up to 2’ in circumference and massive flowers up to 12” in diameter. Some smaller and medium varieties can adapt to patio gardening also.

Aquatic Plants For Sale In Phoenix

For aquatic plants purchasing give us a call today at (623) 878-6695 or stop by our store and take a look at our wide selection of pond products. We can also install, service and maintain your fish pond.

How To Clean A Pond

How To Clean A Pond

If you are searching for “how to clean a pond“, this post by The Backyard Pond can help! It doesn’t matter how hard you try, you will have to clean your pond at some point. Cleaning your pond can greatly increase the lifetime of your pond (and your Koi fish, if you have them) and let you enjoy it for years to come.

Cleaning Your Pond

There will come a time that you will need to clean your pond. You may be preparing your pond for the summer or winter, or maybe you been a little lax on the upkeep and maintenance. There are steps you can take to clean your pond and make it look “newish”. A clean pond gives a new environment for the bacteria in your biological filter and fresh water for the fish. The amount of cleaning required will usually depend on the size of your pond and location of it.

Remove Your Koi Fish From Your Pond

This is far from a clean job, so you shouldn’t wear your Sunday best. Take into account you’re going get dirty, the smell may be unbearable and it might be a bit cold. You’re going to need a fine mesh aquarium net, a garden hose with a spray adapter, and a holding tank (if you plan on removing your fish) big enough to store your fish while cleaning out your pond. You also may need to use a pond vacuum, pond cleaning gloves, if you have access to them.

If your pond is a smaller one, you can simply scoop your Koi out with the aquarium net to transfer them into the holding tank. If you have a larger Koi pond, it might be simpler to just let the fish be. If you do plan on removing them, fill the holding tank with pond water from you pond so an abrupt change in water temperature or water quality won’t shock your fish.

Get Rid Of Surface Debris

More often than not you’re going to see an assortment of sticks and leaves floating on the surface of the pond. Use the net to scoop out all of the debris. This is an easy part but don’t think this is it, you’re far from done. You’re going to get messy soon enough.

Drain The Koi Pond

Use a pond pump to drain the water out of the pond. If you leave your fish in the pond, you clearly don’t want to pump out all of the pond water.

Draining will expose the sides of the pond and makes it a lot easier to remove the algae and other gunk. Depending on the type and strength of your pond pump and the size of your pond, it could take a couple of minutes or in some cases longer than an hour.

Make sure to send the pond water to an area in your yard that has really good drainage. Also try and take at least an hour-long break after you drain the pond and let the sun to dry out the newly revealed algae.

Remove Any Pond Plants and Any Accessories

Remove the pond pump, pond plants and anything else that can be removed. Remove any water lilies and other pond plants in autumn, if you still have plants in your pond at the beginning of spring, take them out too. Use the garden hose and an old toothbrush to really clean all the accessories and their hard to reach places. This is an ideal time to clean or replace the filter on your pond pump. Some pumps have a mesh bag, I yours does simply spray it off with your hose.

Clean the Pump

Now is a great time to clean out your pond’s pump. There are various different types of algae that can thrive in your ponds’ ecosystem. While some of it is valuable for the pond and a natural part of its ecosystem, while string algae is not. You’ll know when you are seeing string algae if it’s stringy, clearly, and if you are capable of just pulling it out of your pond. It tends to stick to bottom of ponds and grow upwards in long strands. They get caught up in your pump and other mechanical systems very easily, and the best and easiest way to clean it is to take the pump out and physically clear away the algae. You can use a brush to scrub any growth on the outside of the casing, but if any sting algae has gotten inside, you will need to take out the pump from the pond altogether.

Get In There And Clean Your Backyard Pond

Use a hose with a spray attachment and forcefully spray away the algae growth on the sides of the Koi pond. Be sure to spray the waterfall and the rocks that line the outside of the pond.

Then, use the net to scoop out the muck and sludge that’s been sitting at the bottom of the pond. This is going to be the messy part. You’re likely to come across a lot of smelly slime, partially decayed plant material and maybe even an incidental lizard or fish.

Once you are done cleaning the pond, it’s time to put the pond back together. Connect the pond pump back up, and replace all of your pond plants and accessories.

Fill The Pond Back Up

Use the garden hose to refill the pond to the desired water level you like. Once the pond is full, turn on the pump and let the water to circulate for a couple of minutes. Most likely you’re going to use tap water. Tap water has chlorine in it, so you may have to add a dechlorinator to safeguard the fish.

Add Your Fish

The new, fresh water in your pond is more likely colder than the water in the holding tank, so give your fish a little time to acclimate. To protect your fish you will want to dump some of the water out of the holding tank and replace it with the new pond water, and repeat the process a number of times.

Phoenix, Arizona Koi Pond

If you already have a Koi pond or if you are thinking about installing a pond and would like a little help or advice with budgeting and design considerations, talk to the Phoenix Koi Pond Experts in Peoria, AZ at The Backyard Pond. Call us today at 623-878-6695 and see what we can do for you.

Koi Pond Filters

Koi Pond Filters Phoenix

If you are searching “koi pond filters” you are most likely looking for basic information on which pond filter best suits your pond needs. Your pond’s filter keeps the water clean, clear and manages the overall health of the pond whether or not you have koi fish, a water feature and any pond plants contained in it. Ponds of any kind simply cannot exist without a pond filter. To have a healthy pond or if you have koi fish, you’re going to need a filter, and you need to find one that is the right size for your pond. Without a pump and filtration system your pond can go from the star of your backyard, to the cloudy green monster in your backyard. Your filtration system gets rid of the debris that gets in your pond.

There Are 3 Basic Types of Pond Filters

There are many types of pond filters, which one you choose to use depends on a couple of factors. The size of your pond, where it is located, how much you want to spend, and if you are going to have fish, all will determine the type of filter you will need. Although there are many different types of pond filters; in this post we will cover the 3 basic ones.

Waterfall/ Skimmer External Pond Filters

Comparable to common swimming pool overflow filters this type of design skims debris from the surface as the pond “overflows” into a recessed skimmer basket. The pond water is then pumped to the opposite end of the pond, where it pours back into your pond over a waterfall bio-filter. Well designed landscaping will hide the entire system so you will see only an appealing water feature.

This type of filter is best suited for medium to large ponds with koi fish. They cost around $470-$1200 for the filter and pump. There is minimal maintenance and installation is moderate. On of the benefits of this filter system it is low in maintenance with easy debris removal. Another benefit about this filter it is hidden by landscaping.

Submersible Pond Filters

In this set up, the filter sits at the bottom of the pond. A submersible pump creates suction to draw water through the filter; it then forces the filtered water to a waterfall or fountain where it re-circulates the water back into the pond.

This system is best for small to medium ponds with small amounts of koi fish or no fish at all. This cost of this filter is around $85-$300 for an entire filtration system. Installation is easy and maintenance is reasonable (depending on the filter location accessibility). Another benefit about this filter it is completely submerged under the water.

External Pond Filters

If you need life-supporting filtration for koi fish or other types of fish in nearly any size pond, think about an external filtration system. In this set up, a pump with an optional pre-filter or skimmer takes water from the pond to a chambered “flow through” filter near the pond at a higher level. Filtered water then pours out of the filter plumbing downward to your pond. The flow can also be directed over a waterfall or streambed.
These filters are for small to large ponds with or without fish. The system costs about $90-$2150 for the filter and pump. Installation is just some easy plumbing. Landscaping may be necessary to hide the filter. It is easily maintained. The filter is accessible on land, but the amount of time to clean it will depend on the filter design. A few pressure filters just need you flip a switch. This system has the best configuration. This system also has widest choice of design and equipment options.

Phoenix, Arizona Koi Pond Filter Systems

If you already have a koi pond or you are considering installing a pond and would like some help or advice with budget and design considerations, talk to the Phoenix Koi pond experts in Peoria, AZ.

The Backyard Pond – 623-878-6695

How To Remove Algae From Your Pond Without Harming Fish

How To Remove Algae From My Pond Without Harming Fish

If you are searching “how to remove algae from my pond” or “how to clean algae from my pond without harming fish” this post should help send you in the right direction.

Algae or string algae is a filamentous species that attaches to plants, hangs from rocks in waterfalls, or hangs on the surface of the water. The long strands tangle together and form thick mats. Excessive string algae will reduce oxygen content, but it doesn’t mean bad water. New ponds often develop green water, but this usually clears within 90 days as plants grow and use up excess nutrients.

Remove Algae
Remove Debris
Free Floating Aquatic Plants
Use Barley Straw
Utilize Beneficial Bacteria Tablets

1. Remove Algae

Rake out as much algae as possible with a pond or garden rake, taking care not to damage the pond liner by accidentally tearing it.

2. Remove Debris

Remove fallen leaves and dead plant foliage from the pond. Siphon plant debris and silt from the bottom of the pond with a pond vacuum, working slowly and carefully to avoid stressing your fish.

3. Free Floating Aquatic Plants

Plant enough floating aquatic plants so that around 50 to 70 percent of the pond surface itself is covered. Place free-floating plants directly into the water. Cover the soil in aquatic plant containers with heavy gravel and place them at the pond level that allows their foilage to float on the surface. If needed place bricks in the pond to stand container plants at the correct level.

4. Use Barley Straw

Place a bundle of barley straw on a large upside-down plastic pot in the pond, so that the bundle is just submerged underneath the water. One 8-ounce bundle treats around 1,000 gallons of pond water. The algae will slowly disappear as the barley straw breaks down when exposed to sunlight and oxygen.

5. Utilize Beneficial Bacteria Tablets

Place a tablet of beneficial pond bacteria in your pond, on a plant or rock, every two weeks. One 1-ounce tablet usually treats around 1,000 gallons of pond water.

Supplies You Will Need

Aquatic Plants
Beneficial Bacteria Tablets
Bricks (Optional)
Bundle Of Barley Straw
Pond or Garden Rake
Heavy Gravel
Large Plastic Plant Pot
Pond Vacuum

Tips For Your Pond

Anchored and also free-floating water plants shade out algae and can absorb excessive nutrients. Water lilies grow in water from 1 foot, up to 4 feet deep and can spread 5 to 6 feet wide. Bearing 5-inch summer flowers that open yellow and turn coppery-bronze, this low-maintenance plant is hardy. Fanwort which bears white flowers May through September and has branching stems of tiny, fan-shaped leaves spread 1 foot to 3 feet wide.

Warnings For Your Pond

Don’t oversupply your pond with fish. One hundred gallons of water is enough for one 6-inch fish or ten 1-inch fish. To determine the amount of water in your pond, multiply its average length, width and depth. Multiply the total by 7.5. This will give you the number of gallons in your pond.

Don’t over feed your fish. Give them as much as they can eat in two minutes, at least up to four times a day. Stop feeding as soon as food is left uneaten, and don’t feed your fish when temperatures are consistently below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Backyard Pond Offers Pond Mainteance & Cleaning

We are specialists in imported Japanese Nishikigoi, Goldfish and Waterplants. We also offer Pond Supplies, Pond Construction and Design. All prices are subject to change without notice. Let us create the backyard pond of your dreams. Loaded with pleanty of koi fish, water gardens, aquatic plants and other pond accessories.

Koi Pond Maintenance Tips

Koi Pond Maintenance Tips

When you are searching for “Koi Pond Maintenance Tips” near you in Phoenix, Arizona, The Backyard Pond can help! Call us at 623-878-6695 for more information.

Koi Fish Pond Maintenance

Having a Koi pond in your backyard or garden can help you find a quiet and serene corner in your yard where you can spend some time among nature and get some fresh air. Keeping up with the application of beneficial bacteria, checking your pond pump for debris, and changing your UV bulb on a regular basis are only part of the upkeep. Utilizing pond tools such as scissors & pliers, collapsible skimmers & fish nets, a heavy duty pond net, and a pond water test kit to name a few.

Some Tips to Maintain Your Koi Pond

Maintaining your pond is important not only for the ponds’ sake but also for the benefit of your Koi fish. Below you will find a small list of some of the key factors in maintaining your Koi pond. This is not a dedicated list, there are other considerations to take in account for your pond not only to last a long time but to keep your Koi fish happy, and more importantly healthy.

Perform Consistent Water Checks To Avoid Common Problems

Check your water levels daily as evaporation can fluctuate the water levels, and fill as needed. If you find that you are losing more water than you should, you should check for any leaks, this is not only bad for your pond but also for your wallet. Repair any tears in the liner with a patch from a scrap of liner. Fix any cracks in your pond with a readily available fiberglass repair kit.

Maintain The Right Temperature

Even though your Koi can manage temperatures between 35 and 85 F degrees, it’s a good idea to keep your fish in water that ranges somewhere between 65 and 75 F degrees. Because we live in the Valley of the Sun, it is best to find a way to shade your pond from the brutal summer heat.

Create Shade Over the Pond

You may need to create a shade over the pond, not only to keep temperatures down, limit algae growth, but also to protect the Koi themselves. There are several types of shades you can use to shade your Koi pond. Try to avoid placing your pond near trees, as roots and debris can compromise your pond. A couple of examples you can use are pergolas and shade sails. There are also dedicated pond covers available.

Avoid Over Feeding

Over feeding your Koi fish is not only expensive, but can actually harm your fish. Overfeeding can also be bad for the health of you pond itself. Chemical balances in the pond need to be carefully monitored as some are good for the pond and some are bad. Uneaten food can cause low oxygen levels, algae bloom, cloudy water and worst of all mold. Food that has not been eaten can also get caught in your pond filters and clog them.

Properly Maintain All Your Koi Pond Equipment

Make sure all of your supplies and equipment are up to date and in properly working condition. These should, but not always include the filtration system, the high powered pond pump, the ultraviolet sterilizer, and the aeration system. With proper care, you’ll have a greater chance of keeping the water sparkling clean and your Koi happy. It is also a good idea to check your filters also as they can get clogged and not flow correctly.

Invest In A Filtration System

A good filtration system will greatly benefit your Koi pond. Koi live their entire lives in the pond, it is where sleep, eat and do their business. Mechanical filters are like vacuum cleaners, they clean unwanted debris from the water. Biological filters, on the other hand, use bacteria to detoxify the water. Both of them work, but it is up to you to choose the best one for your pond. You also have to factor in the size of your pond when choosing a filter. It is a good rule to double the size of your filter according to the size of your pond. A 1000 gallon pond should have a 2000 gallon filter. The filter is ultimately there for the benefit of the Koi, so also take into account your Koi population.

Keep Your Koi Population Under Control

Keeping your Koi population under control is vital to your Koi, the more the merrier is not always the case. Some Koi can get out of control during breeding season and it can soon get out of hand. To many Koi can disrupt the natural balance in the pond, putting your Koi in jeopardy. One method of population control is to re home the Koi you do not want. You might think that is too much effort and would rather take them down to a nearby pond or community watering hole and letting them go. Please don’t do this, these bodies of water contain their own ecosystem, and entering new species will disrupt it. The best way to re home your Koi is to find a local club or chapter, they can give you advice and you can make new contacts and friends as a result.

Cleaning Items Within The Pond

Cleaning your pond will keep it looking nice and also help keep your Koi healthy. You will need some supplies to clean your pond such as a small brush as you will be scrubbing the rocks or tiles, a sizeable bucket (if you are removing the Koi to clean the pond), a pond skimmer net, scissors & pliers, fish nets, and a pond water test kit. Another good idea is to get a leaf net as this will keep bigger debris from falling in the pond itself. They are a little more expensive, but some Koi enthusiasts use a pond vacuum.

Remove Harmful Debris

Debris entering your Koi pond, not only makes you work twice as hard to keep the pond clean, but it is also harmful to your Koi. Debris in the pond can also cause poor water quality. Small particles can make your Koi sick when eaten and larger particles could get caught in the filter reducing water flow.

Caring for Your Pond

Maintaining your Koi pond not only keeps your Koi fish healthy, but also keeps your pond looking great throughout the year. By beginning with the right set-up, your Koi fish will prosper and bring you joy for many years to come. Koi fish are clearly one of the best fish types for your backyard pond.

Taking Care of Your Koi Pond in Phoenix

When you are interested in purchasing pond supplies or pond accessories in Peoria, Phoenix or anywhere else in the Valley, stop by our store today. We can also install, service and maintain your Koi fish pond, give The Backyard Pond a call at 623-878-6695.

Fundamentals of Koi Pond Design

If you are searching “how do i design a koi pond” you are most likely looking for basic information on designing your own pond. Ponds add color and life to your landscape and it is a project that adds beauty and value to your home.

There are 3 fundamentals for the design of a koi pond that all koi enthusiasts will agree on and then debate about how to accomplish it.

Koi Pond Design Fundamentals

Remove the solid waste such as fish poop, uneaten fish food, pine needles, leaf debris, and windblown debris from the pond using pond skimmers, bottom drains and even mid-water drains.

Settle Solid Waste as it is removed in a pre-filter. This is normally done in separate tank or removed physically with new technology through a pond sieve before biological filtration.

Nitrify or Filter your pond water, this is where you convert ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate and then add it back to the pond through waterfalls and it returns to circulation jets below the water level.
These fundamentals are the foundation of the koi pond design. It is from this that you can begin planning. The depth, length and width of the pond will determine the gallons of water. It is from here that we can add the equipment selection by using pumps with matched speed limits for skimmers, UV filters, bottom drains, biological filters, pre-filters, and more. Every pond design is subjective to your goals and can be influenced by your budget and landscape.

Design Tips for your Koi Pond

Your koi pond needs to be designed properly for your fish to thrive. Many professionals will recommend that your pond meet set criteria to be able to provide the best situation for your fish. Normally koi ponds are larger than a fishless pond.

Size Requirements:

• No less than 1000 gallons
• 3 or more feet deep
• 25 square feet of pond for each koi

It is vital that you know that fish will need to have some sort of shade. If the pond happens to get direct sunlight, then you should consider floating plants such as water lilies. Most of the pond surface needs to be shaded to give your koi a comfortable place to escape the sun. Another benefit of plants is that they give them a place to hide from predators.

Water plants are essential. Aquatic plants will help to balance the ecosystem which helps to create a natural home for your fish. There are some plants that are oxygenators which mean that they put oxygen in the water, which the fish can breathe. Koi also eat many types of water plants. Fish don’t need to be fed as long as the pond isn’t over stocked as they can live off algae, insects and other food in the environment. Certain plants can be included as a food source.

Filtration

Good pond filters will help to keep your pond clean and clear. Koi provide a lot of waste which means that a filter is needed. There are 2 types of filtration: biological and mechanical. Mechanical filtration will trap fish waste and debris. Skimmers, pump baskets, and bottom drains are great for mechanical filtration. Biological filters use beneficial bacteria to turn toxins into harmless substances.

Aeration

Fish will need oxygen to survive. Based on your pond size, the amount of plants that are growing and how many fish you have may cause you to need aeration. This is a process of circulating oxygen into the pond water.

Fountains and waterfalls are pleasing ways to aerate a pond. The water motion will allow natural circulation of oxygen. You may even begin to consider adding equipment to aerate your pond. These jets or pumps are great if you have large fish or live in hot climates.

Water Quality

Your pond water quality will impact your fish health. You will want to keep an eye on the pH levels and water temperature. The ideal temperature for your koi is between 39 F to 68 F. The deeper the water is, the easier it is to regulate the pond temperature. The best pH for your pond is between 7.0 – 7.8.
You should be aware that chlorine will hurt your koi, it burns the gills of your fish and leads to death. It is for this reason that you need to wait more than a week after putting chlorine in your pond before you stock it with fish. If you don’t want to wait, you can purchase a dechlorinator.

Hybrid Koi Pond Designs

If you want to challenge yourself to make these changes to their ponds the results are healthier, and happier koi fish and better clarity and quality of water than ever before.
We can learn from the koi pond debate on how to remove solids out of our ponds, settling them, and then making the water safe by nitrifying it. The biggest debate is how to accomplish the fundamentals of pond construction is a big interest. This is about the maintenance, care, well-being of the fish and upkeep. In the last 10 years, the ongoing care for koi has turned out some great technology that hasn’t really become a common practice among pond contractors.

What has been turned out and implemented in the last few years is quite exciting. You can see a big growth rate for koi ponds and making hybrid eco-system ponds within the next few years. The latest and greatest technologies will become mainstream and a new approach for education on installation of koi ponds will help to mold and shape the future for all koi ponds. If you are looking to design and then build a koi pond or are considering pond upgrades, let us help you to find the best technologies for your needs.

Koi Pond Design in Phoenix

For Koi Pond Design give us a call today at (623) 878-6695 or stop store and take a look at our wide selection of koi services and products.

Best Pond Plants for Koi

If you’re searching “Best Pond Plants for Koi” you’re either planning a new Koi pond or thinking about how to make your existing pond better. Either way choosing the right plants for your Koi pond in Arizona will make it more visually stunning and preserve the health of the Koi fish.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Koi Pont Plants

When introducing plant life into your koi pond, it can assist with improving the pond life of koi’s. In addition, it can provide aesthetics to your pond.

Owners of koi must ensure that the correct aquatic plants are chosen for the koi pond to co-exist harmoniously with koi’s. Also, make sure that the plant placement is properly conducted and use vegetation which the koi will simply eat.

Benefits of using aquatic plants within a koi pond

When it comes to aquatic plants, they are thought to be a great part of a koi pond. Aquatic plants can assist with increasing the production of oxygen in water, maintaining the pond with proper aeration for koi’s. In addition, just their presence can help keep water cooler as it provides the koi a shaded area. The submerged plants also act as an important surface during spring breeding season for female koi, as they attach fertilized eggs to the plants.

Keeping Water Cleaner

Meanwhile, the plants can prevent spreading of algae, helping to keep it under control. The shade that plants provide lowers the light that reaches the pond, thus limiting the photosynthesis of algae. Plants provide a natural filtration for preventing string algae, known as blanket weeds to form. This is done mostly by absorbing the nitrates that can be harmful and result in the formation.

Tips to introduce plant life to koi

When it comes to introducing your koi and plants, is by using a plant shelf. Plant shelfs can be installed on the edge of a pond. It is a container which you can plant water plants. It is suggested that plants are weighed down with large rocks or stones so it creates a barrier between the plants and base, and the koi to prevent risks of plants being ate by koi. Also, it is important that pond owners are aware that shelves are used by predators such as raccoons, to feed on the koi.

Although, you can position aquatic plants directly in the pond. When choosing the aquatic plants to place in your pond, there are many options available. There are three main categories that pond plants can be categorized as, discussed below:

Floating plants
Shallow water marsh plants
Submerged Plants

An alternative for introducing aquatic plants to a pond is vegetative filters. Using this system, plants grow in a different containment area, which connects to the main pond. The purpose of the plants is to provide a natural filtration system when water from the pond travels into and out of the contained region. Therefore, providing the benefits of filtration of an aquatic plant system, without the risks of koi dislodging or eating pond plants.

Floating Plants

This form of pond plant is able to be free floating with the main vegetation being on the surface and roots hanging below, unattached or there can be plants where roots attach to muddy bottoms. The overall benefit is that they are easier to take care of, providing enough shade for the koi while competing with algae for the needed nutrients and reduce sunlight that assists in algae growth. In addition, the plants remove nitrogen that exists in the water, along with phosphates which makes them a great filtering system.

Water Hyacinth in a Koi Pond

Water Hyacinth in a Koi Pond The water hyacinth are popular options for floating plants. It is a species that’ annual in colder areas of North America, but in warmer regions it is perennial. They can produce blue or purple flowers, with roots forming a ‘nest’ compacted under them. They provide an excellent filtering system to remove excess nutrients.

Water Lettuce in a Koi Pond

Water Lettuce in a Koi Pond This is another free floating plant that is popular. Water lettuce is more warm/tropic climate plant which develops compact leaf clusters above the surface, while developing compact root mass under the plant.

Water Lilies in a Koi Pond

Water Lilies in a Koi Pond With floating plants that have attached roots, water lilies are the most popular option for a koi pond owner, and can be the best option from any type of aquatic plant. The water lilies do good in nearly any region of North America, no matter the season and are able to be potted and positioned at the bottom of ponds. Above the surface, pond owners get a view of pleasant leafy coverage that produces beautiful flowers to accent any pond design.

Lotus in a Koi Pond

Lotus in a Koi Pond With a similar appearance to water lilies, a lotus is among the oldest aquatic plants cultivated, making an excellent part to a koi pond. Usually, their leaves are large, and can measure up to 18-inches across. This provides a great amount of shade for koi during summer months. Commonly confused with the water lilies, a lotus flower is fragrant and beautiful. Although, it needs to be noted that lotus flowers do have substantial growth rates, and best for a larger koi pond.

Water Poppy in a Koi Pond

Water Poppy in a Koi Pond The water poppy produces smaller oval leaves with yellow flowers. They are a good option for a koi pond and grow rather fast during summer. It can provide a nice yellow accent to ponds, while providing a filtering system.

Shallow Water Marsh Plants

These plants can be planted partially submerged in the shallow march water at the edge of your pond to give your backyard pond a more natural look.

Umbrella Plants

These aquatic plants are tropical and do god in shallow water. If you live in a colder climate, they should be kept inside during the winter months. Umbrella plants have leaves with an umbrella shape on the end of longer stalks.

Water Iris in a Koi Pond

Water Iris in a Koi Pond Another favorite for koi pond owners is the water iris, as there are several pieces to choose from. They provide a long sharp leaf, and based on the species can produce different color flowers, from white, blue, or yellow. Typically, these plants are placed in pots which are submerged in the water. The majority of water iris will survive in partial or full sun, which is good for those that have tree coverage.

Horsetail in a Koi Pond

Horsetail in a Koi Pond This is aplant that is quick to grow and produces slender green stems. It’s best positioned on a peripheral section of a pond, doing best in partial shade.

Submerged plants

Generally submerged plants are grown within pots that are placed on the bottom of a koi pond. These are called the oxygenating plants in an aquatic plant class, which do amazing with removing extra nutrients, such as CO2 and nitrites from the water, while adding oxygen. However, it is good to know these type of plants is commonly uprooted by grazing koi, then eaten. They require great care to ensure they are protected.

Fanwort in a Koi Pond

One type of submergible plant is the fanwort, which is quick to grow and requires a good amount of light. This oxygenator plant I able to grow an inch daily. Using cuttings, it can be propagated.

American Waterweed (Elodea) in a Koi Pond

This species of plant does decent with silty pond substrates. With an exception of a small white flower which blooms above the surface, they are fully submerged. This plant is great with using dissolved CO2 while providing koi with cover, especially smaller koi. There is time when the leafy stalks break and will float off, and take root in another area of the pond. They do well with a milder climate.

Water Purslane (Ludwigia) in a Koi Pond

The Ludwigia family has many species, but Red Ludwigia is a nice option for koi ponds, as it grow quickly and works as an oxygenator. Pond owners can plant it for a submerged plant or allow it to float on the surface. With reddish or purple leaves, they produce small flowers. Usually they do well with plenty of direct sun light.

Phoenix Valley Pond Plants For Sale